If you can participate in ASPCA’s National Adopt-a-Shelter Dog Month or the American Humane Society’s Adopt-A-Dog Month and bring a dog home this month, do it! This is the best time of the year to give a forever home to a deserving dog. However, for those of us who already have a dog (or two or three) at home or maybe the space you have is not ready for a full-time dog yet, there are ways you can still participate by volunteering to help those underserved dogs out there. Read on for ways you can help!
It’s hard to understand how anyone could harm or abandon an animal. But unfortunately, dogs, cats, and other types of animals are abused and neglected in every community, every day. But there is a silver lining: You can do something about it.
By connecting with local resources and taking a proactive approach, you can help animals in your community get the love and care they deserve. Here are some tips to get you started with your dog volunteering:
Help By Working with Non-Profit Organizations
Your community likely has several organizations dedicated to improving the lives of animals. Here are a few ways to make a difference through an organization:
- Give a dog or cat a forever home through adoption.
- If you cannot commit to adopting a pet, consider opening your home by fostering it until their forever home is arranged.
- Volunteer each week or month at a local shelter or farm animal sanctuary.
- Donating money to local pet shelters or pet organizations this month or every month.
Help with the DIY Route
Getting involved with community organizations is an excellent approach, but there are also plenty of ways to help animals on your own:
- Raise money for neglected animals by holding a bake sale, garage sale, or car wash.
- Build animal abuse awareness by lobbying lawmakers, writing to editors, and launching a social media campaign.
- Start a nonprofit organization committed to helping animals in the community.
- Create a logo for your nonprofit by using a logo creator to generate a logo online for free.
Other Approaches You Can Help
Finally, here are a few additional ways to help abused, abandoned, or neglected animals in your community:
Learn the signs of abuse and neglect (e.g., visible wounds, emaciated appearance, being chained all day, etc.) so you can take action.
- Report any misconduct you see, such as animal cruelty or a single property with too many animals.
- If you have pets of your own, show them lots of affection!
If you’re tired of sitting on the sidelines knowing animals in your town are not getting the love and care they deserve, you can start getting involved today! Whether you join the cause of local organizations, take your own approach, or both, listen to your heart and take the necessary steps to help your furry neighbors. You will be amazed by how rewarding it is for your own life!
This month's blog was written by a contributor, Susan Peterson, who writes her own blog at easytolovepets.com
